There’s no denying that the English countryside is gorgeous in the spring and that Mediterranean beaches are appealing places to spend a month or two in the summer. Of course, great minds tend to think alike with the result being that popular places often become crowded just as they start looking their best. The easiest way to avoid this problem is by going somewhere that is a bit out of the mainstream. Therefore, why not consider the following places for your next vacation?
Guadeloupe: If European culture and tropical temperatures are among your favorite things, this French Caribbean island might just be the perfect vacation spot for you. Although the temperature on the island remains consistently warm throughout the year, it’s probably best to avoid the place during hurricane season because it is a popular target for the storms. However, the pristine beaches and affordable prices found here make the island a good bargain at other times of the year.
Koh Lipe, Thailand: Accessible only by ferry or speedboat, this island borders the Tarutao National Marine Park where approximately ¼ of the world’s existent fish species can be found. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities at this spot. Finding accommodations that fit any budget is as breeze on Koh Lipe as there are plenty of different choices available. However, the island’s tourism industry has been lately growing by leaps and bounds so it might be a good idea to go ahead and see this island before it becomes overwhelmed with visitors.
Kobarid, Slovenia: Despite being the scene of a long ago battle and having an excellent museum to show for it, this mountain town makes a good vacation spot for travelers that prefer towering peaks to sandy shores. Visitors might enjoy stopping by the nearby Kozjak Waterfalls or going whitewater rafting or kayaking on local rivers. Of course, the village itself is home to a number of upscale eateries which are sure to come in handy after a long, activity filled day.
Schönau am Königsee, Germany: Another beautiful mountain town, this lakeside Bavarian destination makes an excellent stop for winter sports enthusiasts. In fact, the bobsleigh run found here happens to be among the oldest in the world. Hiking the nearby peaks is another popular pastime. Schönau am Königsee also contains numerous health spas, which makes helps make the area a great vacation spot for athletically minded individuals who happen to be traveling with those who are not.
Şanlıurfa, Turkey: Also known as Urfa, this ancient Turkish town is an ideal vacation spot for travelers who prefer cities to small towns. In fact, the biblical Abraham was said to have been born thousands of years ago in a cave outside the city. The town’s main attractions include the covered bazaar, the Great Mosque, the small archeological museum, and Urfa Castle. However, it is certainly worth making a visit outside the city to see the Göbekli Tepe, which is the world’s oldest temple.